Step by step chaitya vandan

Here is a simple step-by-step outline for Chaitya Vandan (the devotional sequence at Jain temples), with a brief note on tradition differences. If you want the exact Sanskrit texts of each sutra, tell me and I can outline them too.

Step-by-step Chaitya Vandhan (basic outline)

1) Preparation and mindset

• Bath, clean clothes, and a calm space. Focus your mind on the Tirthankaras and the Chaitya you are visiting.

2) Nissih (renunciation at the threshold)

• A few inward resolve moments to turn away from worldly thoughts as you enter the space.

3) Pradakshina (circumambulation)

• Move around the vedi or garbha-griha with joined hands and a steady mind, as per local maryada.

4) Pranam and Panchang Pranam (offerings to the 5 revered ones)

• Do the traditional salutation (panchang or ashta-anga pranam) at the start, mentally offering yourself at the feet of the Tirthankaras.

5) Navkar Mantra

• Recite the Navkar Mantra with full concentration, typically at the start of the chaitya vandan.

6) Chaityavandan proper (the main sequence)

• Iriyavahiya Sutra
• Tassa Savvāsāhu Sutra
• Annattha Sutra
• Logassa Sutra
• Uvajjhāya Sutra
• Jaya Viyaraya Sutra
• Icchāmi Khamasamano Sutra
• Along with these, perform the prescribed number of Khamasaman (bowing/prostrations) as per tradition.

7) Stuti (praise)

• Recite a chosen stuti such as Bhaktamar Stotra or other Tirthankara stutis appropriate to the murti you are venerating.

8) Kshamapana (confession and forgiveness)

• Kshamapi Kshamapan Sutra: a prayer for forgiveness to all living beings and forgiveness of your own faults.

9) Pratikraman or concluding devotion (depending on local practice)

• In many communities, a brief prayer to refresh intention and resolve for right conduct.

10) Concluding bow and exit

• Offer final salutations and complete the ritual with inner peace and resolve to follow the path.

Notes on tradition differences

• The overall structure (Navkar, Chaityavandan sutras, and Kshamapana) is common to many Shwetambar Murtipujak practices and is also observed with variations in Digambar practices. Specific sutras or the order of some steps can vary by temple, sect, or regional paddhati. The core idea remains devotion to the Arihantas, Siddhas, and the Jain scriptures, with correct bhav (inner feeling) being the essential part.

You can read more details on Chaitya Vandhan vidhi as commonly practiced here:

• Chaityavandan vidhi for pooja.
• Please-write Chaitya Vandhan Vidhi (step-by-step guidance).

If you would like, I can provide the exact Sanskrit texts of each sutra in the sequence and explain their meanings per Digambar and Shwetambar interpretations.